Royal family team up in show of support as they call nurses around the globe

The royal family has teamed up to call nurses around the world for International Nurses Day in a show of solidarity and thanks for the healthcare profession amid the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Queen, the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the Princess Royal, the Countess of Wessex and Princess Alexandra all played their part in the unprecedented mass of global royal phone calls, messages and video chats as they paid tribute to nurses' "incredible work".

Kate and Sophie joined forces to speak together to nurses as far afield as India, Australia, Malawi, Cyprus, the Bahamas and Sierra Leone, as well as in the UK.

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Coronavirus impacts Britain

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Coronavirus impacts Britain

Nurses view a painting by Glasgow artist Robert Miller of three NHS colleagues on the frontline in the fight against Covid-19. It hangs just outside the Intensive Care Unit of Glasgow Royal Infirmary. (Photo by Andrew Milligan/PA Images via Getty Images)

Police officers in riot gear shout to protestors near Downing Street, in central London on June 6, 2020, during a demonstration organised to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement in the wake of the killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died after a police officer knelt on his neck in Minneapolis. - The United States braced Friday for massive weekend protests against racism and police brutality, as outrage soared over the latest law enforcement abuses against demonstrators that were caught on camera. With protests over last week's police killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, surging into a second weekend, President Donald Trump sparked fresh controversy by saying it was a "great day" for Floyd. (Photo by DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS / AFP) (Photo by DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP via Getty Images)

A demonstrator, wearing PPE (personal protective equipment), including a face mask as a precautionary measure against COVID-19, and sunglasses themed on the Union and US flags, gestures during a protest march in Manchester, northern England, on June 6, 2020, to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement in the wake of the killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died after a police officer knelt on his neck in Minneapolis. - The United States braced Friday for massive weekend protests against racism and police brutality, as outrage soared over the latest law enforcement abuses against demonstrators that were caught on camera. With protests over last week's police killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, surging into a second weekend, President Donald Trump sparked fresh controversy by saying it was a "great day" for Floyd. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP) (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

People walk past stalls at an almost deserted Portobello Road Market in London on June 6, 2020, as lockdown measures are partially eased during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. - Outdoor markets swung open their gates on June 1, and car showrooms tried to lure back customers and recoup losses suffered since Britain effectively shut down for business on March 23, to ward off a disease that has now officially claimed more than 40,000 lives in the country. Britain's Health Ministry said 40,261 people who tested positive for COVID-19 had died as of 0800 GMT on Friday June 5. (Photo by Ben STANSALL / AFP) (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)

CARDIFF, UNITED KINGDOM - JUNE 06: A woman looks on while wearing a surgical mask which says "I can’t Breathe" during a Black Lives Matter protest at the Senedd on June 06, 2020 in Cardiff, United Kingdom. The death of an African-American man, George Floyd, while in the custody of Minneapolis police has sparked protests across the United States, as well as demonstrations of solidarity in many countries around the world. (Photo by Matthew Horwood/Getty Images)

Pedestrians wearing PPE (personal protective equipment), including a face mask as a precautionary measure against COVID-19, walk past an anti-racism poster in the them of the British government's Coronavirus slogan, near a demonstration in Manchester, northern England, on June 6, 2020, to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement in the wake of the killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died after a police officer knelt on his neck in Minneapolis. - The United States braced Friday for massive weekend protests against racism and police brutality, as outrage soared over the latest law enforcement abuses against demonstrators that were caught on camera. With protests over last week's police killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, surging into a second weekend, President Donald Trump sparked fresh controversy by saying it was a "great day" for Floyd. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP) (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

People walk past graffiti painted on a wall in in Glasgow City Centre, Scotland on June 6, 2020, as lockdown measures are eased during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Andy Buchanan / AFP) (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images)

EDEN PROJECT, ST AUSTELL, UNITED KINGDOM - JUNE 06 : A limited number of visitors return to The Eden Project for the first time in 75 days on June 6, 2020 in St Austel, England. The 30-acre gardens have been maintained by only four staff members during the Covid-19 lockdown but are now receiving pre-booked visitors who can safely visit. During this first phase of reopening, Eden is welcoming in free of charge anyone who works in the NHS or the care industry plus one guest. Existing Eden Project Members and new visitors can also book places.The British government has started easing the lockdown it imposed in March to curb the spread of the Covid-19. (Photo by Hugh Hastings/Getty Images)

A passenger waits at a bus stop with a sign advising travellers to wear a face covering whilst travelling, in London, Friday, June 5, 2020. It will become compulsory to wear face coverings whilst using public transport in England from Monday June 15. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

A woman carries takeaway draught beer in plastic cups from a pub in Broadway Market, London on June 5, 2020, as lockdown measures are eased during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Tolga Akmen / AFP) (Photo by TOLGA AKMEN/AFP via Getty Images)

Face masks stand ready to be given out to people to help stop the spread of coronavirus in Waterloo station, London, Thursday, June 4, 2020. Waterloo station, which is wide recognised as the busiest train station in Britain, is still much quieter than normal as most commuters are working from home and not commuting into central London offices. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Terri Eaton (R) and Dan Racvenhill (L), part of the UK Seasonal Relief Team working for The Watercress Company hold onto crates full of spinach as the tractor manoeuvres across the field as they harvest spinach on farmland near Dorchester, in southern England on June 5, 2020, during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. - The company have found it difficult to find staff since the Coronavirus pandemic, due to a shortage of seasonal workers from abroad, managing director Tom Amery said. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS / AFP) (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Jack Hargreaves (R) carries a full crate as the UK Seasonal Relief Team working for The Watercress Company looks on as they harvest spinach on farmland near Dorchester, in southern England on June 5, 2020, during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. - The company have found it difficult to find staff since the Coronavirus pandemic, due to a shortage of seasonal workers from abroad, managing director Tom Amery said. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS / AFP) (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

A worker, from the UK Seasonal Relief Team working for The Watercress Company crosses the spinach beds as the team harvests spinach on farmland near Dorchester, in southern England on June 5, 2020, during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. - The company have found it difficult to find staff since the Coronavirus pandemic, due to a shortage of seasonal workers from abroad, managing director Tom Amery said. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS / AFP) (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

A person wears a jacket with Social distance guidelines printed on it at Edinburgh Waverley Station as Scotland moves into phase one of the Scottish Government's plan for gradually lifting lockdown. (Photo by Andrew Milligan/PA Images via Getty Images)

A pigeon sits on a social distance sign at Edinburgh Waverley Station as Scotland moves into phase one of the Scottish Government's plan for gradually lifting lockdown. (Photo by Andrew Milligan/PA Images via Getty Images)

A customer service assistant at Edinburgh Waverley Station wears a protective mask as Scotland moves into phase one of the Scottish Government's plan for gradually lifting lockdown. (Photo by Andrew Milligan/PA Images via Getty Images)

A rail passenger wearing mask at Edinburgh Waverley Station as Scotland moves into phase one of the Scottish Government's plan for gradually lifting lockdown. (Photo by Andrew Milligan/PA Images via Getty Images)

A woman wears a protective face mask on a bus in central Manchester on June 5, 2020, as lockdown measures are eased during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. - Face coverings will soon be compulsory for people wanting to travel on public transport in England to limit the spread of coronavirus. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

A woman walks past graffiti in praise of the NHS (national health service) on the shutters of a closed hairdressers shop in central Manchester on June 5, 2020, as lockdown measures are eased during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

Customers chat as they drink their takeaway draught beer in plastic cups outside a pub in Broadway Market, London on June 5, 2020, as lockdown measures are eased during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Tolga Akmen / AFP) (Photo by TOLGA AKMEN/AFP via Getty Images)

A sign asking people to use face coverings outside Waterloo station in London, following the announcement that wearing a face covering will be mandatory for passengers on public transport in England from June 15. (Photo by Jonathan Brady/PA Images via Getty Images)

BOSTON, MA - JUNE 4: Leandrea Brantle from Roslindale holds a sign asking "Will my son be next?" at A Silent Vigil for Black Lives in Adams Park in Boston on June 4, 2020. Protesters gather calling for justice for George Floyd and other Black Americans killed by police officers on the day of Floyd's funeral. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

In this photo illustration, a Covid-19 tracker app made by a research group at King�s College London to track the spread of the virus seen displayed on a smartphone.
The app takes 1-min to report your daily health and allows anyone who suspects they have the disease to input their symptoms daily. 3,797,713 people are currently using the app. (Photo by Dave Rushen / SOPA Images/Sipa USA)

In this photo illustration, a Covid-19 tracker app made by a research group at King�s College London to track the spread of the virus seen displayed on a smartphone.
The app takes 1-min to report your daily health and allows anyone who suspects they have the disease to input their symptoms daily. 3,797,713 people are currently using the app. (Photo by Dave Rushen / SOPA Images/Sipa USA)

A sign asking people to use face coverings outside Waterloo station in London, following the announcement that wearing a face covering will be mandatory for passengers on public transport in England from June 15. (Photo by Jonathan Brady/PA Images via Getty Images)

A shop fitter moves a section of plaster board under flags and banners hung above Old Bond Street, London, following the introduction of measures to bring England out of lockdown. (Photo by Jonathan Brady/PA Images via Getty Images)

An employee wears PPE (personal protective equipment) including a face mask and gloves as a precautionary measure against COVID-19, as he sits behind a perspex screen at the reception of a recently re-opened Vauxhall car dealership in north London on June 4, 2020, as lockdown restrictions are eased during the noel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. - Car showrooms in England reopened this week as the UK government eased COVID-19 lockdown measures that have slammed the brakes on the industry. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP) (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

In a reception classroom, children sit apart from each other on a carpet where crosses have been marked out for them to sit on, in a teaching environment safe from Coronavirus for pupils and teachers at Brambles Primary Academy in Huddersfield, northern England on June 4, 2020, as the Government's recommencing of education for Reception and Years 1 and 6 classes gets underway. - Primary schools reopened the week commencing June 1, welcoming back children in Reception, year 1 and year 6 age groups, alongside priority groups. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

A shopper wearing a protective face mask at Borough Market, in London, following the introduction of measures to bring England out of lockdown. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski/PA Images via Getty Images)

A car salesman (L) wearing PPE (personal protective equipment) including a face mask as a precautionary measure against COVID-19, shows customers vechiles parked on the forecourt of a recently re-opened Vauxhall car dealership in north London on June 4, 2020, as lockdown restrictions are eased during the noel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. - Car showrooms in England reopened this week as the UK government eased COVID-19 lockdown measures that have slammed the brakes on the industry. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP) (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Business Secretary Alok Sharma wipes his face during a speech in the House of Commons, London. Sharma has been tested for coronavirus after becoming visibly unwell in the debating chamber. (Photo by House of Commons/PA Images via Getty Images)

A new piece of street art by The Rebel Bear has appeared on a wall in Leith, Scotland, as Scotland is moving into phase one of the Scottish Government's plan for gradually lifting lockdown, Wednesday June 3, 2020. Scotland and Wales have developed separate procedures from England to gradually allow the lifting of lockdown restrictions because of the COVID-19 coronavirus. (Jane Barlow/PA via AP)

Passengers in a queue at Stansted Airport, Essex, to check in for a flight to Adana, Turkey, as new quarantine rules for travellers arriving in the UK are to be set out by Home Secretary Priti Patel. The plans, due to come into force on June 8, will see people arriving in the UK told to isolate for 14 days to prevent coronavirus cases being introduced from overseas.

Stalls reopen at Walthamstow Market in east London, the longest street market in Europe, following the introduction of measures to bring England out of lockdown, Wednesday June 3, 2020. The highly contagious COVID-19 coronavirus has impacted on Britain with self isolation and social distancing when people move from their homes. (Victoria Jones / PA via AP)

A person passes coronavirus related graffiti in Glasgow as Scotland is moving into phase one of the Scottish Government's plan for gradually lifting lockdown. (Photo by Andrew Milligan/PA Images via Getty Images)

BLACKWOOD, WALES - JUNE 2: Staff wearing PPE check over a delivery list at Mcdonlad's as they prepare to resume trading for takeaway only in Wales within the next 24 hours following lockdown on June 2, 2020 in Blackwood, Wales, United Kingdom. The British government continues to ease the coronavirus lockdown by announcing schools will open to reception year pupils plus years one and six from June 1st. Open-air markets and car showrooms can also open from the same date. (Photo by Huw Fairclough/Getty Images)

RAYLEIGH, ENGLAND - JUNE 01: Signs with social distancing guidelines in the window of a reopened Toyota car dealership showroom on June 01, 2020 in Rayleigh, England. The British government further relaxed Covid-19 quarantine measures in England this week, allowing groups of six people from different households to meet in parks and gardens, subject to social distancing rules. Many schools also reopened and vulnerable people who are shielding in their homes are allowed to go outside again. (Photo by John Keeble/Getty Images)

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 01: Groups of people sunbathing by the lake in Regent's Park during warm sunny weather on June 01, 2020 in London, UK. The British government further relaxed Covid-19 quarantine measures in England this week, allowing groups of six people from different households to meet in parks and gardens, subject to social distancing rules. Many schools also reopened and vulnerable people who are shielding in their homes are allowed to go outside again. (Photo by Jo Hale/Getty Images)

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 31: A customer buys an ice cream from an ice cream van which shows a social distancing sign at Hollow Ponds in East London on May 31, 2020 in London, England. The British government continues to ease the coronavirus lockdown by announcing schools will open to reception year pupils plus years one and six from June 1st. Open-air markets and car showrooms can also open from the same date. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

GWITHIAN, HAYLE, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 31: RNLI lifeguards on duty at Gwithian beach on May 31, 2020 in Gwithian, United Kingdom. Lifeguards returned at Gwithian and six other Cornish beaches this weekend after being absent since the start of the UK Covid-19 lockdown. Cornwall Council has been working with the RNLI to have the cover restored as people flock to beaches in the warm weather. The British government has started easing the lockdown it imposed two months ago to curb the spread of the Covid-19. (Photo by Hugh Hastings/Getty Images)

TOPSHOT - People sunbathe on the beach in front of the derelict West Pier in Brighton, on the south coast of England on May 31, 2020 on the eve of a further relaxation of the novel coronavirus lockdown rules. - The UK government has set out a gradual easing of lockdown measures in England, with socially distanced groups of six friends and families allowed to meet in parks and gardens from June 1. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 31: People in pedalo's go through the Olympic Park in Stratford on May 31, 2020 in London, England. The British government continues to ease the coronavirus lockdown by announcing schools will open to reception year pupils plus years one and six from June 1st. Open-air markets and car showrooms can also open from the same date. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

People fill the beach at Durdle Door, near Lulworth, despite Dorset Council announcing that the beach was closed to the public after three people were seriously injured jumping off cliffs into the sea.

Police patrol the cliff top near Durdle Door, Lulworth, after Dorset Council announced that the beach was closed to the public after three people were seriously injured jumping off cliffs into the sea.

People play tennis at North Berwick Tennis Club, as people can meet family and friends outdoors and play sports such as golf and tennis again as Scotland is moving into phase one of the Scottish Government's plan for gradually lifting lockdown.

Nine-year-old Tobias Weller, from Sheffield, who has cerebral palsy and autism, completes the final leg of a 26.2 mile total of a walk he has called his "ginormous challenge", to walk a marathon using his walker during the lockdown.

Horses from Ed de Giles stables on the gallops at his yard in Little Marcle, Herefordshire .

Extinction Rebellion activists stage a socially distanced protest outside the Woolwich Centre, in south London, calling on the council to better respond to Covid-19 and climate change.

File photo dated 29/04/20 of Tobias Weller, who has cerebral palsy and autism, being cheered on by neighbours as he walks along the street outside his home in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. Nine-year-old Tobias, who cannot stand or walk unaided, is gearing up for the final leg of what he has called his "ginormous challenge" to walk a marathon using his walker during the lockdown.

A security guard wearing a face shield and mask checks a customers temperature before he enters a supermarket, as the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown eases, Chinatown, London. Picture date: Friday 29th May 2020. Photo credit should read: David Jensen/EMPICS Entertainment

Thank You Our Heroes and Union Flags are displayed over New Bond Street in preparation for the shops to reopen as the Coronavirus lockdown eases, Mayfair, London. Picture date: Friday 29th May 2020. Photo credit should read: David Jensen/EMPICS Entertainment

Cookhouse Joe's Chef awaits customers in the doorway of the restaurant as it reopens to the public for takeaway only as the Coronavirus lockdown eases, Berwick Street, London. Picture date: Friday 29th May 2020. Photo credit should read: David Jensen/EMPICS Entertainment

MAESYCWMMER, WALES - MAY 29: A customer waits to pick up her order from Fish Kitchen 1854, a traditional fish and chip shop which has reopened for online orders only on May 29, 2020 in Maesycwmmer, Wales, United Kingdom.The British government continues to ease the coronavirus lockdown by announcing schools will open to reception year pupils plus years one and six from June 1st. Open-air markets and car showrooms can also open from the same date. (Photo by Huw Fairclough/Getty Images)

A woman walks past closed shops and restaurants on Piccadilly in central London's main high street retail shopping area on May 29, 2020 ahead of some shops reopening from their coronavirus shutdown from next week. - The UK Prime Minister announced on May 28 that some English schools and shops would reopen from next week people would a little more freedom to meet others in public as he tried to plot Britain's path through a health disaster that has officially claimed 37,837 lives -- second only to the United States -- and devastated the economy. (Photo by Tolga AKMEN / AFP) (Photo by TOLGA AKMEN/AFP via Getty Images)

Police officers patrol as people enjoy the weather at Alexandra Palace, London, after the introduction of measures to bring the country out of lockdown. (Photo by Ian Hinchliffe/PA Images via Getty Images)

A woman walks past closed Debenhams department store on Oxford Street in central London's main high street retail shopping area on May 29, 2020 ahead of some shops reopening from their coronavirus shutdown from next week. - The UK Prime Minister announced on May 28 that some English schools and shops would reopen from next week people would a little more freedom to meet others in public as he tried to plot Britain's path through a health disaster that has officially claimed 37,837 lives -- second only to the United States -- and devastated the economy. (Photo by Tolga AKMEN / AFP) (Photo by TOLGA AKMEN/AFP via Getty Images)

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 29: A couple with cycles meet in front of a fountain in Trafalgar Square during warm sunny weather on May 29, 2020 in London. The British government continues to ease the coronavirus lockdown by announcing schools will open to reception year pupils plus years one and six from June 1st. Open-air markets and car showrooms can also open from the same date. (Photo by Jo Hale/Getty Images)

Former nurse Joan Rich, 101, walks through Allenby Park in Felixstowe, Suffolk, to raise money for NHS Charities Together. Mrs Rich, who uses a frame to aid her walking, aims to walk 102 laps of the park before her 102nd birthday on 11 September. (Photo by Joe Giddens/PA Images via Getty Images)

A woman, Tina Jane from Shoreham, sings songs out the back of her car to entertain the people that live on her street after the Clap for Carers, as the UK continues to ease out of lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus.

LIVERPOOL, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 28: People enjoy the warm and sunny weather relaxing on the pavement outside their homes in the Shorefields area of Liverpool during the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown on May 28, 2020 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. The British government continues to ease the coronavirus lockdown by announcing schools will open to reception year pupils plus years one and six from June 1st. Open-air markets and car showrooms can also open from the same date. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MAY 28: Fire and explosion damage can be seen on an EE network 5G mast that was attacked by an arsonist earlier this week in Brodie Avenue on May 28, 2020 in Liverpool, England. A lot of the damage was caused by the resulting explosion when the petrol was ignited. Several phone masts have been deliberately damaged around the UK, their attackers inspired by a conspiracy theory positing that 5G technology is linked to the spread of the coronavirus. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

People buy fresh fruit and vegetables from a stall in an outdoor street market in Walthamstow, east London on May 28, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. - Britain has suffered the highest death rate from the coronavirus among the most-affected countries with comparable tracking data, according to Financial Times research published Thursday. (Photo by Tolga AKMEN / AFP) (Photo by TOLGA AKMEN/AFP via Getty Images)

Cleaner James York from First Bus cleans a bus at their Larbert depot ahead of the bus returning to service. Due to social distancing measures only a certain amount of people will be able to travel on a particular bus at a certain time after the introduction of measures to bring the country out of lockdown. (Photo by Andrew Milligan/PA Images via Getty Images)

A man wearing a protective mask strolls across a bridge in central London, Tuesday, May 26, 2020, during hot weather following the gradual easing of the COVID-19 lockdown, allowing more outdoor recreation and letting some shops and businesses reopen. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

GLASGOW - MAY 27: Members of the public walk past new graffiti on Clyde Street on May 27, 2020 in Glasgow, United Kingdom. The British government continues to ease the coronavirus lockdown by announcing schools will open to reception year pupils plus years one and six from June 1st. Open-air markets and car showrooms can also open from the same date. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

People walk along Portobello Road Market in London, Wednesday, May 27, 2020. Following the gradual easing of the COVID-19 lockdown, street markets will be allowed to reopen in Britain from Monday onwards. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Shop owners wait for customers and prepare at Sherpherd's Bush Market in London, Wednesday, May 27, 2020. Following the gradual easing of the COVID-19 lockdown, street markets will be allowed to reopen in Britain from Monday onwards. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Dominic Cummings, the chief advisor to Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson, arrives at Downing Street in London, Wednesday, May 27, 2020. The prime minister's populist appeal has been hammered by news that, as the coronavirus outbreak raged, chief adviser Cummings drove 250 miles (400 kilometers) to his parents' house while he was falling ill with suspected COVID-19 — allegedly flouting lockdown rules that the government had imposed on the rest of the country. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

A workman removes graffiti from a wall near the north London home of the Prime Minister's top aide Dominic Cummings as the row over his Durham trip during the coronavirus lockdown continues.

A sign displaying advice on social distancing is displayed at the beach in Weston-super-Mare, south west England on May 27, 2020, as lockdown measures are eased during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

CHEAM, ENGLAND - MAY 27: AFC Wimbledon Footballer Jack Rudoni trains at home during the Coronavirus Pandemic on May 27, 2020 in Cheam, England. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

Cleaner James York from First Bus cleans a bus at their Larbert depot ahead of the bus returning to service. Due to social distancing measures only a certain amount of people will be able to travel on a particular bus at a certain time after the introduction of measures to bring the country out of lockdown. (Photo by Andrew Milligan/PA Images via Getty Images)

Number 10 special advisor Dominic Cummings leaves his residence in north London on May 26, 2020. - British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's top adviser Domonic Cummings said yesterday he acted "reasonably and legally" despite mounting pressure on him to resign for allegedly breaking coronavirus lockdown rules. (Photo by DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS / AFP) (Photo by DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP via Getty Images)

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - 2020/05/25: A man sunbathes in London on a very hot and sunny day.
The UK government has started to ease the coronavirus lockdown allowing people to spend more time outdoors. (Photo by Steve Taylor/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

CILFYNYDD, WALES - MAY 26: A general view of a car sales showroom which is currently closed for business on May 26, 2020 in Blackwood, United Kingdom. The British government continues to ease the coronavirus lockdown by announcing schools will open to reception year pupils plus years one and six from June 1st. Open-air markets and car showrooms can also open from the same date. (Photo by Huw Fairclough/Getty Images)

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 24: Social Distancing measures are seen on a Bakerloo line tube train on May 24 2020 in London, England. The prime minister announced the general contours of a phased exit from the current lockdown, adopted nearly two months ago in an effort curb the spread of Covid-19. (Photo by Peter Summers/Getty Images)

Team GB taekwondo athlete Lutalo Muhammad trains at his home in Walthamstow, following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), London, Britain, May 24, 2020. REUTERS/Paul Childs TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

The Young Westminster Foundation (YWF), a charity that supports young people in the Westminster Borough, unveil their new and original digital artwork by the graffiti artist STIK on the Piccadilly Lights screen, at Piccadilly Circus, central London. (Photo by Jonathan Brady/PA Images via Getty Images)

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - 2020/05/24: A view of a coronavirus awareness mural and a tribute to NHS workers drawn on a wall during the coronavirus crisis. (Photo by Dave Rushen/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

PORTHCAWL, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 25: A surfer in the water at Sandy Bay on May 25, 2020 in Porthcawl, United Kingdom. The British government has started easing the lockdown it imposed two months ago to curb the spread of Covid-19, abandoning its 'stay at home' slogan in favour of a message to 'be alert', but UK countries have varied in their approaches to relaxing quarantine measures. (Photo by Matthew Horwood/Getty Images)

A police officer talks to a protester outside the north London home of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's senior aide Dominic Cummings , as lockdown questions continue to bombard the Government after it emerged that he travelled to his parents' home despite coronavirus-related restrictions. (Photo by Victoria Jones/PA Images via Getty Images)

Mounted police patrol Barry Island, Wales, where the stay at home message is still in force and only essential travel is allowed. (Photo by Ben Birchall/PA Images via Getty Images)

A Long Eaton (Derbyshire) resident and NHS worker presents a Tribute and Memorial to the dedicated members of the NHS and Social Care family who gave their lives during the fight against COVID-19. (Photo by Scott Wilson/PA Images via Getty Images)

SALISBURY, ENGLAND - MAY 24: Team GB Olympic Trap Shooter Augusta Campos-Martyn trains at her home on May 24, 2020 in Salisbury, England. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)

A man feeds a swan in Hyde Park, London, after the introduction of measures to bring the country out of lockdown. (Photo by Kirsty O'Connor/PA Images via Getty Images)

People sit in their vehicles as they wait at a KFC in Killingworth North Tyneside, after the introduction of measures to bring the country out of lockdown. (Photo by Owen Humphreys/PA Images via Getty Images)

BIGBURY-ON-SEA, ENGLAND - MAY 23: An NHS heart is drawn in the sand at Bigbury Beach on May 23, 2020 in Bigbury-on-Sea, England. The British government has started easing the lockdown it imposed two months ago to curb the spread of Covid-19, abandoning its 'stay at home' slogan in favour of a message to 'be alert', but UK countries have varied in their approaches to relaxing quarantine measures. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

BIGBURY-ON-SEA, ENGLAND - MAY 23: Kitesurfers enjoy the windy conditions at Bigbury Beach on May 23, 2020 in Bigbury-on-Sea, England. The British government has started easing the lockdown it imposed two months ago to curb the spread of Covid-19, abandoning its 'stay at home' slogan in favour of a message to 'be alert', but UK countries have varied in their approaches to relaxing quarantine measures. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

A woman sits alone on a bench under a tree at the top of Cissbury Ring, Worthing, after the introduction of measures to bring the country out of lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Two women walk through a heavy rain shower in St James's Park in central London, on the first day of the Bank Holiday weekend, as people flock to parks and beaches with lockdown measures eased.

Member of the public taking a walk along the seafront in Swanage, Dorset

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 21: Swimmers in the Serpentine in Hyde Park on May 21, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. This week temperatures reached 28 degrees celsius in the UK, as many people enjoy the sunshine despite lockdown still being in place due to the COVID-19 outbreak. (Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

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In a montage of the calls, messages and videos released on social media, Kate said: "I don't know how you manage to do this and keep the show on the road despite the extra pressures you're all under and the challenging conditions – it's just shown how vital the role that nurses play across the world. You should be so proud of the work that you do."

She branded it "amazing" that the nurses were still able to continue their support and care during the pandemic.

Sophie told some of the nurses: "I hope you're feeling some of the love as well".

Sophie and Kate video-calling nurses in Malawi (Kensington Palace/PA)

The Queen rang Professor Kathleen McCourt, president of the Commonwealth Nurses and Midwives Federation and Fellow of the Royal College of Nursing of which the head of state is patron, from Windsor Castle where the monarch has been staying in lockdown.

In audio of her telephone conversation, the Queen, who was greeted by Professor McCourt with a "Good afternoon Your Majesty", could be heard saying: "This is rather an important day ... because obviously they've had very important part to play recently."

The Palace said it believed it could be the first time the audio of part of a call by the Queen had been released.

Heir to the throne Charles, in an excerpt from his video message to all nurses, said: "On this International Nurses' Day, my family and I want to join in the chorus of thank yous to nursing and midwifery staff across the country and indeed the world."

Many of the nurses were seen wearing face masks, as they spoke to the royals about the impact of the coronavirus.

A Palace spokeswoman said: "On every call, the royal family reiterated their thanks to nurses across the Commonwealth for the incredible work they do on a daily basis."

Kate is patron of the Nursing Now campaign, the global initiative to raise the status and profile of nurses, while Sophie is a global ambassador of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness.

The pair spoke with nurses across the Commonwealth including those at Gidgee Healing in Queensland, Australia.

They also chatted with HIV and maternal health nurses at the Phalombe District Hospital in Malawi; mental health nurses at Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre in Nassau in the Bahamas, those working at Aberdeen Women's Centre in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and the LV Prasad Eye Institute and Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, India.

They heard from those in Sierra Leone how their previous experience of Ebola had helped shape their response to the Covid-19 disease.

Anita Kamara, fistula supervisor and nurse at the women's centre in Sierra Leone, said afterwards: "Having the future Queen and the countess speak to us today was really special."

The duchess and Sophie went on to speak to staff at the Evelina London Children's Hospital, of which Kate is patron.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visiting Evelina London Children's Hospital in 2018 (Chris Jackson/PA)

Sophie is Colonel in-Chief of Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps, and with Kate, called Army nurses from the Corps stationed in Cyprus.

The countess joked about Kate wanting help with her children when one of the medics, Corporal David Thomas, revealed his ex-wife was a teacher.

"Yes. I'd quite like her to come and help me with home schooling," the duchess admitted.

Camilla recorded messages of support for nurses from the Royal Naval Medical Service and Roald Dahl's Marvellous Children Charity, while the Princess Royal called Tanzania to speak with the programme manager of a medical ship that provides facilities for those with little or no access to medical care.

William thanking nurses at the Royal Marsden (Kensington Palace/PA)

William last week talked to nurses at the Royal Marsden, of which he is patron, and Princess Alexandra spoke with the head of the Naval Nursing Service in her role as patron of Queen Alexandra's Royal Naval Nursing Service.

The duke told them they were doing a terrific job, adding said: "Thank God for the Royal Marsden right now, I can tell you that."

International Nurses Day takes place on Florence Nightingale's birthday and this year is the 200th anniversary of Nightingale's birth.